Propane is one of the most clean, green, and versatile fuels around…but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.

When it comes to propane, there are many misconceptions and questions people have about how to use it, how safe it is, and more. Here are four propane questions we get a lot here at Parker Gas.

What is the difference between a propane gas tank and a propane cylinder?
Generally speaking, when people refer to a propane cylinder, they are talking about a portable vessel like the ones used to power a propane grill. A propane tank, on the other hand, is a larger storage unit that is installed and filled in a fixed location at your home or business.

How frequently should I replace my propane tank?
Although propane cylinders and tanks can last for decades with regular inspections and maintenance, they do have expiration dates (you can usually find the expiration date at the top of your tank). All propane cylinders must be inspected and re-certified after 12 years, then every 5 years after that.

What happens if I leave my propane tank in the sun?
Propane tanks are designed to minimize the risk of explosion or rupture: not only do they have a built in safety valve, they are also only filled to 80 percent of their volume capacity to allow for propane gas expansion as ambient temperatures rise. The bottom line: it is extremely difficult to bring a propane tank to the point of explosion.

Why does propane smell like skunk / rotten eggs?
Actually, propane doesn’t smell like anything – at least not in its original state. What you smell is actually a chemical additive (usually ethyl mercaptan) that is added to propane as a safety measure, to make a leak easier to detect.